“You have to be positive, don’t you? I know I’m not going to get cured and I’m realistic about the long-term prospects, but they’re not bad.

“Most importantly, I really do think I’ve had a wonderful life, with amazing experiences as a reporter and a presenter. And if it was all to end tomorrow, I couldn’t have any complaints. I’ve had a really marvellous time.”

Shortly before discovering his diagnosis, Bill pre-recorded an appearance on a celebrity edition of the ‘Great British Bake Off’ in aid of Stand Up To Cancer, and had viewers in tears when he filmed a video discussing his condition.